Afghan army casualties reduced by 1.9 percent: Azimi

According to Afghan defense officials, there has been a slight reduction in Afghan national army casualties during the past three months.

Gen. Zahir Azimi defense ministry spokesman on Wednesday said at least 160 Afghan national army soldiers were killed during the past three months.

Mr. Azimi further added the statistics shows a reduction of 1.9% as compared to last year where 179 Afghan national army soldiers were killed during the same period.

He also said at least 463 Afghan national army soldiers have been killed during the past six months while 472 Afghan soldiers were killed last year.

According to Gen. Zahir Azimi increased capabilities of the Afghan national army soldiers are the main reason behind a reduction in Afghan soldiers casualties.

Mr. Azimi also said that Afghan national army soldiers are equipped with modern facilities which are unique in the region.

In response to United Nations report regarding civilians casualties during Afghan soldiers operations Mr. Azimi denying the report said the casualties have dramatically reduced during Afghan army operations.

Gen. Zahir Azimi said United Nations has also allocated civilians casualties who have been killed by unknown people to Afghan army.

He also called on the organizations to present evidence regarding their claims.

In the meantime defense ministry spokesman Gen. Zahir Azimi said defense minister Gen. Bismillah Mohammadi’s tour to Pakistan was a step to improve bilateral relations between the two nations.

This comes as local media agencies in Pakistan have reported that Pakistani and Afghan officials have agreed to reach a deal on training Afghan security forces however Mr. Azimi said the two sides have not signed any agreement so far.